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Airport Policy

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 May 2021

Tuesday, 18 May 2021

Ceisteanna (280)

Christopher O'Sullivan

Ceist:

280. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether plans to extend the runway at Cork Airport could disrupt the extended summer season; if the works can be brought forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26604/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As the Deputy is aware Cork Airport is progressing a Runway Reconstruction and Remediation Project which will be the single-biggest construction project and the biggest investment by daa at Cork Airport since the opening of the new terminal building in 2006. 

I acknowledge that the anticipated closure of the airport from 12 September to 22 November this year will be disruptive for many in the Cork region.  However, taking a range of factors into consideration, Cork Airport decided that the optimal approach for completing this project would be to close the airport for 10 weeks rather than restricting works to night-time hours only, which would push out the project’s delivery timescale to 9 months.  The airport engaged extensively with airline customers and stakeholders on this issue and the vast majority were in support of the airport’s approach.

Delivering the runway project over the shorter time period is safer in both construction and aeronautical terms; will have the lowest impacts on passengers and airlines; and is the most cost effective option when compared with the alternative night time closure option.

The runway upgrade is a complex and large project that also involves a full renewal of all the airside electrical systems.  Given the costs involved, this project falls within the scope of the Public Spending Code (PSC).  

Given the detailed procurement process involved for an infrastructure project of this scale and the requirements under the PSC, it would not be feasible to bring this project forward any earlier than is currently planned.

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